FG begins review of national strategy to tackle transboundary agricultural pests

The Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security has commenced the review and validation of a new National Integrated Pest and Plant Disease Management Strategy aimed at improving Nigeria’s capacity to prevent and control transboundary and migratory agricultural pests.

The exercise, which brought together researchers, policymakers, development partners and private-sector stakeholders at ARMTI in Abuja, seeks to strengthen national surveillance, early warning and rapid-response systems for pests that continue to threaten crop production across the country.

Speaking at the opening session, Grace Iwendi, Director, Plant Health and Pest Control Services Department, said the strategy is intended to harmonise expert knowledge and global best practices to address the growing risks posed by pests such as locusts, quelea birds, armyworms and invasive plant diseases.

She noted that climate variability, increased movement of goods and people, and ecological changes had intensified pest pressures, contributing to declining yields and rising production losses.

“Nigeria must strengthen preparedness, surveillance and coordinated management approaches. This workshop provides a platform to refine a science-driven and actionable national strategy,” she said.

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Marcus O. Ogunbiyi, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, said recurring outbreaks—including Fall Armyworm, Ginger blight, Tuta absoluta and quelea birds—had caused significant economic losses, particularly for smallholder farmers who make up the bulk of the sector.

He said the updated strategy would focus on prevention, early detection and sustainable management using Integrated Pest Management principles that combine biological, cultural, mechanical and chemical control measures.

“Emerging pests, resistant pathogens and climate-driven migrations demand dynamic and adaptive solutions. Effective implementation will require coordination, capacity-building and adequate resources,” he added.

The Ministry acknowledged the support of development partners, including the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), for ongoing technical collaboration in improving national pest control systems.

Officials said the validated strategy would guide long-term national action to safeguard plant health, enhance food security, and strengthen resilience within the agricultural sector.

The workshop continues with technical sessions on identifying gaps and proposing operational measures for nationwide implementation.

Ruth Tene, Assistant Editor, Agric/Solid Minerals/INEC

Ruth Tene is an award-winning journalist with over 15 years experience in developmental reporting across several newsrooms, as a reporter, editor and other managerial roles. She holds a Postgraduate Diploma in Journalism from the University of Maiduguri among several other certifications

She has attended several trainings and certifications both locally and internationally and has been recognized for her impactful work in humanitarian reporting, receiving the Gold Award for Humanitarian Services from the Amazing Grace Foundation. She is also a recipient of the Home Alliance Fellowship, reflecting her commitment to fostering a more humane, safer and more sustainable planet.

An active member of professional journalism bodies, Ruth is affiliated with the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), the National Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), and the Agricultural Correspondents Association of Nigeria (ACAN), where she continues to advocate for excellence, ethical reporting, and development-focused journalism.

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